Listen Button - Responsive

Feb 1, 2012
We use a credit card to pay for all monthly expenses and then pay it off at the end of each month. My credit score fluctuates every quarter, depending on when the accounts are checked. My question is how can we convince the credit rating company that we do not carry any credit card debt from one month to the next? My score is currently at 749 but has been as high as 815. Thanks, I really enjoy your program. Randy, Macomb, IL

Jan 27, 2012
I have recently started purging old files of financial information (statements, bills, receipts, etc.). I have heard that I should keep credit card statements for 7 years, but I was wondering: If the accounts are closed and there are no discrepancies on the credit reports, do I really need to hang on to these statements? Thanks for your insight. Alicia, Indianapolis, IN

Jan 16, 2012
The American Banker says that JPMorgan Chase appears to be backing off efforts to collect unpaid credit card debt from its customers. They're not forgiving the debt, but they've quietly stopped going after it.

Dec 8, 2011
I recently "moved my money" and I'd like to get rid of my old credit cards linked to the old bank accounts. Assuming there are no fees for keeping the old cards, should I save one and not use it, or occasionally use it in case it needs to remain active? Or can I simplify my life, cut loose the dormant accounts and just move on to my new cards? Any advice appreciated. Charlie, San Francisco, CA

Dec 8, 2011
I understand that your credit score is affected by the percentage of your available credit that you use. However, does this reflect the total percentage of the total available, or is it specific to each line of credit? Gabriel, Somerville, MA

Nov 18, 2011
They look like innocent pieces of plastic, but high interest rates and fees can ravage your wallet and your credit score. We talk to a financial expert about how to deal with credit cards responsibly.